What does FIP stand for?
FIP stands for Groupement pour les facilités de circulation internationales du personnel des chemins de fer. It is the association for international railway staff travel discounts. Railway and shipping companies of the UIC (International Union of Railways) are affiliated with it.
The proof of entitlement is the International Discount Card for Railway Staff, in short FIP Card or FIP-Card.
Who is entitled to FIP?
Generally, active and retired employees of FIP members are entitled. Family members can also be entitled under certain conditions. After twelve months of employment, employees can apply for the FIP Card. Please contact your HR department for application and use.
Does FIP also apply to dependents?
Depending on the agreement between FIP members, family members (children, partners) can also use FIP discounts. This is always mentioned on the respective operator pages. Discounts for children are also listed there.
What is the FIP Card?
The FIP Card is the proof of entitlement for discounted travel with FIP members abroad. It enables free or discounted travel with participating railway and shipping companies.
Where do I get my FIP Card?
Contact your HR department. Note that you generally only have a right to international travel discounts after twelve months of employment.
What discounts do I get through FIP?
With the FIP Card, you are entitled to use the transport services of the respective FIP member at discounted rates. Different rules apply depending on the operator. You can find details on the operator pages.
There are various types of discounts:
- Discounted tickets: With the FIP Card, you receive heavily discounted tickets (usually 50% off the flexible price or global fare). There are no quantity restrictions or application deadlines.
- Free travel with FIP Coupons: With many FIP members, you can travel for free with an FIP Coupon. Per operator, one coupon with one to four fields can be ordered once per calendar year.
FIP travel is not always the cheapest option. In some countries, savings fares are available that are cheaper.
Where can I get discounted tickets with the FIP Card?
The purchase method differs depending on the operator, for example online, by phone, or at a travel center. You can find a detailed overview sorted by FIP member here.
What rules apply to FIP Coupons?
The issuance of FIP Coupons depends on your employer. Typically, in one calendar year you can apply for one FIP Coupon with one to four fields per FIP member. More detailed information can be found on the FIP Application.
As a rule, a processing deadline applies when applying.
Where can I order FIP Coupons?
The application for FIP Coupons is usually made through your railway company’s personnel service or travel center. Some companies also offer online portals.
How many fields can I request for FIP Coupons?
The number of fields varies depending on the operator, the issuer of your FIP Card, and your employee status. More information can be found in the FIP Application.
What does a field on an FIP Coupon mean?
A field entitles you to unlimited journeys on the network of the respective railway or shipping company during the validity period on the date entered and the following day.
How long is an FIP Coupon valid?
An FIP Coupon is valid for three months from the date of issue. The fields contained within it can be used during this period.
How long is a field of a FIP coupon valid?
A field’s validity begins on the date entered by the user and ends the following day at midnight (24:00). Thus, each field is valid for a period of two days. With the maximum of four fields, you can travel for eight days.
Which railway companies accept FIP?
Over 30 European railway companies and some shipping companies participate in the FIP system. A list of which companies are involved can be found in the FIP Guide in the list of operators. For information about your travel destination, see our country page.
Are there exceptions when using FIP Coupons?
Yes. With some companies, no FIP Coupons can be used, while with others they apply only to certain train categories.
Details on FIP member rules can be found on the operator pages.
Do I need a reservation to use trains with FIP?
A reservation is required for many trains, mostly high-speed and night trains. You can find an overview on the respective operator page.